Rail travel in Europe is undergoing a dramatic transformation. In 2026, rail is no longer just a means of getting from one place to another but has become an integral part of the holiday experience, with a 51% year-on-year increase in rail-based bookings. Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Latvia, and Spain are at the forefront of this revival, where rail usage is surging, driven by competition, new routes, and growing environmental awareness.
This Rail Revival is not just about saving on travel costs. It’s about sustainability, efficiency, and the opportunity to explore Europe in a way that was once only possible by car. From sleeper trains crossing borders to increased domestic routes, travelers are choosing rail to enjoy Europe’s iconic destinations in a greener, more comfortable way. Here’s how the rise of rail travel is reshaping tourism and business travel in 2026.
1. Growth Leaders: Countries Driving the Rail Surge
The countries that are leading the charge in rail travel in 2026 are seeing dramatic increases in passenger numbers, thanks to government incentives, infrastructure investments, and new rail services. According to data from Eurostat and Rail Europe, these countries are seeing the highest growth in rail usage:
- Hungary: Leading the way with an extraordinary 60% growth, driven by the expansion of the Budapest-Vienna-Belgrade corridor and new discounted rail passes for local tourists.
- Latvia: With 13.9% growth, Latvia is capitalizing on the Baltic Rail links that now connect Riga to Estonia, making rail travel more accessible and efficient across the Baltic region.
- Ireland: Increasing its rail usage by 10%, Ireland has significantly invested in domestic intercity routes, improving connectivity across the country and making rail the preferred mode of transport for both locals and tourists.
- Switzerland: With a 22.9% modal share, Swiss travelers are embracing the “train-first” approach, where rail dominates over other forms of travel, making Switzerland a key leader in sustainable rail transport across Europe.
These countries’ investments and innovations are not just increasing passenger numbers—they are reshaping travel habits across Europe.
2. Sleeper Trains: A Greener and More Comfortable Travel Option
A central feature of the Rail Revival in 2026 is the introduction and expansion of sleeper trains, allowing travelers to save on hotel stays while crossing borders. These new night routes are making rail travel more attractive for both business and leisure travelers, particularly those seeking sustainable travel options.
- Switzerland & Sweden: Starting April 15, 2026, the Basel-Copenhagen-Malmö EuroNight will offer the first direct night link between Switzerland and Scandinavia, covering 1,400 km and offering a comfortable, eco-friendly overnight journey.
- France & Germany: The Paris-Berlin night train will be relaunched in March 2026, providing up to 700 seats per trip. This route effectively replaces several short-haul flights, offering an environmentally friendly alternative for travelers between France and Germany.
- Italy, Belgium & The Netherlands: By June 2026, a new night service will link Milan, Brussels, and Amsterdam, catering to the growing number of “bleisure” travelers who blend business trips with leisure, particularly those traveling between Italy’s fashion capital and Brussels, the heart of European governance.
These sleeper services are not only convenient and affordable but also significantly reduce carbon emissions, making them an excellent choice for eco-conscious travelers.
3. Key Data Points Driving the Rail Revival
The resurgence of rail travel in Europe can be attributed to several key data points, all contributing to the trend’s massive growth in 2026:
- 51% Increase in Rail-Based Itineraries: Railbookers reports a significant rise in bookings for multi-country rail tours. This trend reflects a growing desire among travelers to explore Europe by train rather than relying on air travel, as they embrace the more scenic, relaxed pace of rail journeys.
- Sustainability vs. Cost: Rail travel is up to 8 times more sustainable than flying on the same route. For instance, trains between Brussels and Prague generate far fewer emissions than short-haul flights, making it the preferred choice for eco-conscious travelers.
- Swiss Government Investment: The Swiss government has committed CHF 47 million to subsidize international night trains until 2030. This initiative acknowledges that while sleeper trains are more expensive to operate than day trains, they play a critical role in achieving the country’s climate goals.
- Spanish Rail Competition: In Spain, the liberalization of the rail market has led to increased competition, with three operators—Renfe, Ouigo, and Iryo—competing on the Madrid-Barcelona line. This competition has boosted passenger volumes by nearly 50%, making rail travel an increasingly affordable and attractive option for domestic travelers.
These factors are creating a strong foundation for the continued growth of rail travel in Europe, benefiting both tourists and business travelers.
Impact on Business Travel and Tourism
The growth of rail travel is having a profound impact on both business and tourist travel across Europe. For business professionals, the availability of new sleeper trains and the expansion of domestic and cross-border rail routes make it easier and more efficient to travel between European cities. Rail provides a seamless, comfortable, and time-efficient alternative to flying, enabling professionals to save time and reduce travel-related stress.
For tourists, the rise of rail travel offers a unique opportunity to explore Europe in a way that was previously limited to car travel. With more overnight routes and the ability to move easily between cities, tourists can visit multiple destinations in one trip, enhancing their travel experience. The rise of affordable rail passes and sustainable travel options makes exploring Europe by train not only an eco-friendly choice but also an enriching experience.
Quick Tips for Rail Travelers in 2026
- Book in Advance for the Best Deals: Sleeper trains and popular routes can fill up quickly, so booking early is key to securing the best fares.
- Pack Light for Comfort: Many trains, especially night trains, have limited space. Pack light to ensure a more comfortable journey.
- Explore More with Rail Passes: Consider purchasing a rail pass for unlimited travel across multiple countries, allowing you to explore Europe without the need for separate tickets.
- Embrace Sustainable Travel: Look for rail services that prioritize sustainability, with reduced emissions and eco-friendly operations.
- Stay Flexible: Rail travel allows for greater flexibility in your itinerary. You can easily change your plans, hop off at a new destination, or take advantage of spontaneous travel opportunities.
Conclusion
The Rail Revival of 2026 is redefining the way people travel across Europe. With countries like Switzerland, Hungary, Ireland, and Spain leading the charge, rail is becoming a dominant force in European travel. As sleeper trains and sustainable rail options grow in popularity, both business and tourism sectors are benefiting from the increased accessibility, comfort, and environmental benefits that rail travel offers. Whether for business professionals or leisure travelers, the Rail Revival is making train journeys across Europe more exciting, efficient, and sustainable than ever before.
Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated
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